Now is the time to stock up on your sun protection products and remember to check the use by dates on anything you have left over from last year.
All of the Ultrasun products mentioned below will all last for 24 months once opened and none contains perfume, emulsifiers or preservatives and all are water resistant. These products require a once-a-day application which makes them ideal for applying before school and knowing your child is protected during the day.
Always apply sun protection at least 15 minutes before going out into the sun – if applied in direct sunlight creams can evaporate and become less effective.
Applying sun protection is no substitute for a sensible attitude to being in the sun. Loose cotton clothing, wearing a hat and sun glasses and making sure that you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration are all important. Plus you should be wary of reflected sunlight:
Babies under six months should never be exposed to the sun and all children should be encouraged to play safely in the shade. Sun tents are great for this. And everyone should try to avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm when the UV rays are at their strongest.
We tried out four products in the Ultrasun range.
Extreme 50 (100ml/£20)
This is great for babies and children and, probably what many people are not aware of, it is available on prescription for those with skin conditions which are exacerbated by the sun. It also contains no mineral oils. This is good for anyone with very sensitive skin. It feels quite thick to apply and initially leaves a white covering. This is perfect for Harriet who has very fair and sensitive skin.
Family 30 (100ml/£19)
This is the all rounder sun protection that is good for all the family. Make sure you use enough (about the size of a gold ball or more if necessary) to cover any exposed body parts and apply at least 15 minutes before going out into the sun.
Sports 20 (125ml/£16)
This is perfect for teenage boys and men – especially those whose hair is thinning and are, therefore, in danger of sunburn on the scalp – as it glides over hair! Of course men taking part in sports like golf should wear a hat in the sun but it's not so easy to do that in the sea. It also contains no mineral oils.
Face 30 Tinted (50ml/£26)
I love tinted sun screens and this Ultrasun Face 30 offers a subtle colour which is great for busy mums. It also contains antioxidants. Apply as you would any face cream.
PWT rating: ♥♥♥♥♥